Police are investigating the deaths of a father and children aged 7 and six
who were found by a bridleway.

Michael Pedersen, 51, and his two children Ben, aged 7, and six-year-old Freya, were discovered by a member of the public near their family car.

It was understood that the deaths were linked to a murder and suicide and police were not looking for anyone else in connection with the tragic deaths.

Detectives were alerted to the horrific scene at Newton Stacey, Andover, Hants, at around 6.15pm on Sunday night.

The area was cordoned off while scenes of crime officers inspected the crime area.

Detective Superintendent Tony Harris of Hampshire Police, said: "We are currently investigating the circumstances surrounding this terrible incident and are working to establish what has led to these tragic deaths.

"We are treating this as an isolated incident and we do not believe anyone else was involved.

"The families of Michael, Ben and Freya have been informed and specialist Family Liaison Officers from Hampshire Constabulary, and officers from Surrey Police, are working with them to provide support and keep them updated as the investigation progresses.

"Our thoughts are with the family and friends of those involved at this extremely difficult time and I would ask that they be allowed to come to terms with what has happened in a dignified and respectful way."

The Coroner has been informed and post mortem examinations were due to take place shortly to establish the cause of the deaths.